2005 Lirac Reine des Bois

Wow, the 2005 Domaine de la Mordorée Lirac Cuvée de la Reine des Bois is absolutely stunning stuff. Gobs of rich dark fruit, charred earth and tobacco notes on the not so shy nose. With air, this picks up lovely mineral notes. The palate is medium to full bodied, balanced with noticeable acidity and some fairly hefty tannin levels on the long finish.

Exceedingly dark! Almost cheesy on the nose and then sumptuously sweet on the palate. Very very modern style, to the extent of even tasting vaguely of coconut. Not for me but some may like its push to the limits of extraction. (JR)

The brilliant 2005 Lirac La Reine des Bois, which is made from equal parts Grenache, Mourvedre, and Syrah, and aged in a combination of tank, wooden foudres, and small oak barrels, shows notes of ground pepper, melted licorice, roasted meats, blackberry, and cassis. This is a sensational wine, and frankly, the best red wine made in Lirac. Full-bodied and rich, it will hold up for at least 10-12 years. Oct 2007, www.robertparker.com